How to Plan your Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip from Beijing

The Great Wall of China is one of the most magnificent architectural achievements in human history. It is a massive wall built along the northern borders of China to prevent invasions. A visit to China is incomplete without experiencing this historic wonder, and Mutianyu is one of the best sections of the wall to visit. Here’s your guide on how to plan your Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip from Beijing.

Overview

Escape bustling Beijing for a day at one of the less-crowded sections of the Great Wall on this private trip. The Mutianyu section of the wall is less crowded than the Badaling segment, making it an excellent destination for an intimate and peaceful experience. Your trip includes transport by comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle, a personal guide, entrance fees, and lunch. You will also have the option to ascend and descend by cable car, chairlift, or toboggan, and fees for those options are included if you decide to upgrade.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

The tour company offers hotel pickup and drop-off service at your Beijing hotel. The pickup time is around 7:00 AM, and the complete itinerary lasts for about eight hours. You will travel to Mutianyu in a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring you travel in comfort.

Mutianyu Great Wall

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and is located 80 kilometers north of central Beijing. It is known for its stunning views of the wall snaking across the alpine forest-covered mountains. Upon arrival, you will take a cable car to the top of the mountain, from where you can explore the towers and walls with a professional local guide. The Wall is impressive, and its construction will leave you in awe. The long walks and stairs are a great exercise, so remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Optional Upgrades

While planning your tour, you may choose to upgrade your experience with some additional options. The first is the cable car, which can save you time and energy while enjoying the scenic view. The second is the toboggan, an exciting and unique way to descend the Great Wall. You can toboggan down a metal track, providing a thrilling experience. Keep in mind that the cost of the cable car and toboggan is included in the tour price, but you still need to inform your guide upon booking your tour.

Lunch

After the Great Wall tour, you will enjoy a Chinese cuisine lunch at a local restaurant to recharge your batteries. If you have any dietary preferences or conditions, inform your guide.

English-speaking Tour Guide Service Fee

Your tour is inclusive of an English-speaking tour guide service fee. The guide will give you significant information about the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and its ancient history. The guide will also be with you throughout the tour to suggest the best lookout points, answer your queries, and make recommendations on anything related to the trip.

Gas toll & Parking Lot

The tour company will cover all the charges related to gas toll and parking lots, and there will be no extra charges. This arrangement is in place to ensure you have a comfortable, stress-free tour.

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip from Beijing? You can book the tour directly through viator.com. The tour starts at $74.99 per person, with a minimum of two travelers. The trip is flexible, and you can customize it according to your needs. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

A visit to China would be incomplete without visiting the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Booking with a tour company is the best way to explore the Great Wall without encountering any delays or language barriers. The Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Trip from Beijing is a convenient way to experience the ancient wall, with transfers and entrance fees included. So, book your tour today and make memories of a lifetime.

FAQ About Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is a fascinating mix of ancient history and modern culture. If you are planning to visit Beijing, you may have some questions regarding the city. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

Beijing has four distinct seasons, with cold and dry winters and hot and humid summers. The best time to visit Beijing is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. However, be aware that spring may see dust storms, while autumn can be crowded due to the peak tourist season.

2. How many days should I spend in Beijing?

To fully explore Beijing and see all the major tourist attractions, you should spend at least four to five days in the city. This will give you time to explore the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, and other famous landmarks.

3. What are the must-visit tourist spots in Beijing?

– The Forbidden City: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Forbidden City is a palace complex that was once the home of the Emperor of China. – The Great Wall of China: An architectural marvel, the Great Wall is a series of fortifications built to protect China from the invaders. – The Temple of Heaven: A symbol of ancient Chinese religious beliefs, the Temple of Heaven is an awe-inspiring example of Ming Dynasty architecture. – The Summer Palace: A royal garden, the Summer Palace is a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscapes and historic buildings. – Tiananmen Square: The heart of China’s political power, Tiananmen Square is a vast open space surrounded by important government buildings.

4. What is the transportation system like in Beijing?

Beijing has a well-developed transportation system, including subway, buses, taxis, and bicycles. The subway is the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation, covering most of the city’s major tourist spots. Taxis are also affordable and relatively easy to find, but be sure to have your destination written down in Chinese.

5. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese Yuan (CNY) or Renminbi (RMB). You can exchange money at airports, banks, hotels, and currency exchange shops. ATMs are also widely available.

6. What is the language spoken in Beijing?

The official language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

7. What is the food like in Beijing?

Beijing’s cuisine is a blend of northern Chinese culinary traditions, with a focus on hearty, filling dishes that can withstand the city’s harsh winters. Some famous dishes include Peking roasted duck, jianbing (a Chinese breakfast crepe), and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).

8. What is the nightlife like in Beijing?

Beijing has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Sanlitun area is particularly popular among expats and young locals, while the Houhai area offers a more laid-back atmosphere with traditional Chinese architecture.

9. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Beijing?

– It is customary to greet others with a nod or a slight bow, rather than shaking hands. – Do not touch anyone’s head, as it is considered rude. – When visiting someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift such as fruit or tea. – When dining out, it is common to share dishes rather than ordering individual meals.

10. Is Beijing a safe city for tourists?

Beijing is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates and a visible police presence. However, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and tourist scams such as overpriced taxis or fake tour guides. It is always advisable to stay alert and take precautions to ensure your safety.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing is a city filled with history and culture, making it an excellent destination for tourists. From its ancient temples to its modern skyscrapers, Beijing offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Beijing.

Step 1: Explore the Forbidden City

Begin your journey in Beijing by exploring the Forbidden City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a palace complex that was once home to Chinese emperors. The Forbidden City is made up of 980 buildings and covers an area of 72 hectares. It’s a must-visit attraction in Beijing and can take a whole day to explore.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot throughout the day
• Bring a water bottle and snacks as there are limited options inside
• Buy your tickets in advance to save time queuing and guarantee your entrance

Step 2: Visit the Great Wall of China

No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall of China. This iconic landmark is a series of fortifications that were built to protect Chinese borders. The Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles across China but the most accessible sections are located near Beijing.

Tips:

• Choose a less touristy section of the wall if you want to avoid the crowds
• Be prepared to hike up steep stairs to reach the top of the wall
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as it can be hot and tiring

Step 3: Walk Through Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world and is an important site in Chinese history. The square has been the site of many significant events, including the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
• Be aware that there are strict laws and regulations regarding photography and behavior in the square
• Pay your respects to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which commemorates those who died in China’s revolutionary struggles

Step 4: Experience the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit attraction in Beijing. It’s a complex of Taoist buildings and is said to be the place where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped the God of Heaven.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat
• Wear appropriate clothing as the temple is a religious site and respect is required
• Don’t miss the Echo Wall, where you can hear your voice echo from one end of the wall to the other.

Step 5: Try Beijing’s Cuisine

No trip to Beijing is complete without trying the city’s famous cuisine. From Peking Duck to dumplings, Beijing has a range of delicious food to offer.

Tips:

• Visit local markets to try authentic Beijing street food
• Be adventurous and try new things
• Ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat

Step 6: Take a Hutong Tour

Hutongs are Beijing’s traditional alleyways and courtyard homes. Taking a tour of the Hutongs is a great way to learn about Beijing’s rich history and culture.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking throughout the narrow alleys
• Try a rickshaw ride to experience local transportation
• Visit local homes and immerse yourself in the traditional way of life

Step 7: Watch a Beijing Opera

Beijing Opera is a traditional art form in China that has been around for over 200 years. The opera combines singing, music, and theater to tell stories about Chinese history and culture.

Tips:

• Visit a reputable theater to ensure a quality show
• Be prepared for the art form as it can be different to Western performances
• Read up on the history and meanings behind the performances to fully appreciate the show

Step 8: Relax in the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a beautiful park in Beijing that was once a retreat for Chinese emperors. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature.

Tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking throughout the park
• Take a boat ride on the lake to see the park from a different perspective

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. By following this step-by-step guide, you can experience the best that Beijing has to offer. From world-famous landmarks to traditional alleyways, there’s something for everyone in Beijing.